The present disclosure generally relates to printed structures and methods for generating the same. The printed structure includes a first surface including a first ink type arranged in a first image and a second surface at least partially aligned with at least a portion of the first surface, the second surface including a second type of ink arranged in a second image. The first and second surfaces are physically separated from one another, the first image is visible under a first set of light wavelengths and the second image is visible under a second set of light wavelengths.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A printed structure generated by a printer, the printed structure comprising: a first surface comprising a first ink type printed on the first surface so as to be arranged in a first image; and a second surface at least partially aligned with at least a portion of the first surface, the second surface comprising a second ink type printed on the second surface so as to be arranged in a second image; wherein the first surface and second surface are physically separated from one another; the first image generated by the first ink type is observable under a first set of light wavelengths; and the second image generated by the second ink type is observable under a second set of light wavelengths.
This invention relates to a printed structure produced by a printer, addressing the need for multi-layered, selectively visible imagery on physically separated surfaces. The structure includes a first surface with a first ink type forming a first image, and a second surface, at least partially aligned with the first, with a second ink type forming a second image. The surfaces are physically separated, allowing independent visibility of each image under different lighting conditions. The first image is visible under a first set of light wavelengths, while the second image is visible under a second set. This enables applications where different information or designs are revealed depending on the lighting environment, such as security features, authentication, or variable display systems. The use of distinct ink types and wavelength-specific visibility ensures that the images remain distinct and do not interfere with each other. The physical separation of the surfaces allows for flexible design and application, such as in layered materials or multi-functional printed media. The invention leverages printing technology to create dynamic, context-dependent visual outputs.
2. The printed structure of claim 1 , wherein a material forming the second surface is transparent or partially transparent.
This invention relates to printed structures with enhanced optical properties, particularly for applications requiring transparency or partial transparency in one or more surfaces. The problem addressed is the need for printed structures that can maintain visual clarity or controlled opacity while retaining structural integrity and functionality. The printed structure comprises a first surface and a second surface, where the second surface is formed from a transparent or partially transparent material. This allows light to pass through the second surface, enabling visibility of underlying elements or environmental features. The transparency can be uniform or selectively applied to specific regions of the surface. The material used for the second surface may include transparent polymers, glass, or composite materials with controlled opacity. The first surface may be opaque or have different optical properties to contrast with the second surface. The structure can be used in applications such as displays, signage, architectural elements, or wearable devices where transparency is desirable. The transparent or partially transparent second surface allows for aesthetic or functional benefits, such as viewing underlying components or integrating the structure into environments where visibility is important. The invention ensures that the transparency does not compromise the structural or functional performance of the printed structure.
3. The printed structure of claim 1 , wherein the first ink type of CMY ink and the second ink type is ultraviolet RGB ink.
This invention relates to a printed structure using a combination of CMY (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow) ink and ultraviolet (UV) RGB (Red, Green, Blue) ink to enhance print quality and durability. The printed structure is formed by depositing a first ink type, such as CMY ink, onto a substrate, followed by depositing a second ink type, such as UV RGB ink, onto the same substrate. The UV RGB ink is cured using ultraviolet light to solidify the ink and improve its resistance to fading, smudging, and environmental factors. The combination of CMY and UV RGB inks allows for vibrant color reproduction while maintaining long-term stability. The substrate may include materials like paper, plastic, or fabric, and the printing process can be applied in various industries, including packaging, signage, and textile printing. The invention addresses the need for high-quality, durable prints that resist degradation over time, particularly in outdoor or high-wear applications. The use of UV-curable inks ensures rapid drying and enhanced adhesion, reducing production time and improving print longevity.
4. The printed structure of claim 1 , further comprising a base material, wherein the first surface is a top surface of the base material; and an overlay material, wherein the second surface is a surface of the overlay material; wherein the overlay material is positioned over with the base material.
This invention relates to a printed structure with a base material and an overlay material. The structure addresses the challenge of creating durable, multi-layered printed designs that maintain integrity under stress or environmental conditions. The base material provides a foundational layer, with its top surface serving as the first surface for printing. The overlay material is positioned over the base material, with its surface acting as the second surface. This configuration enhances the printed structure's resistance to wear, abrasion, or environmental degradation by encapsulating the printed design between the base and overlay materials. The overlay material can be transparent, allowing the printed design to remain visible while providing protection. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring long-lasting printed designs, such as signage, labels, or decorative surfaces, where durability and visual clarity are essential. The printed structure may also include additional layers or coatings to further enhance properties like adhesion, flexibility, or chemical resistance. The base and overlay materials can be selected based on compatibility with the printing process and the desired end-use environment.
5. The printed structure of claim 4 , wherein the overlay material is aligned with the base material such that the first image and the second image are registered with one another.
This invention relates to printed structures with aligned overlay materials, addressing the challenge of precise registration between multiple printed layers. The technology involves a printed structure comprising a base material with a first image and an overlay material with a second image. The overlay material is aligned with the base material such that the first and second images are registered with one another, ensuring accurate positioning and alignment of the printed elements. The base material may include a substrate with a printed first image, while the overlay material may be a transparent or translucent layer with a printed second image. The alignment ensures that the images overlap or align in a predetermined manner, which is critical for applications requiring high precision, such as security features, decorative printing, or functional layered printing. The invention may also include additional layers or materials to enhance the alignment or functionality of the printed structure. The alignment process may involve mechanical, optical, or digital registration techniques to achieve the desired precision. This technology is particularly useful in industries where misalignment could compromise the integrity or appearance of the final product, such as in packaging, labels, or security documents.
6. The printed structure of claim 1 , further comprising a substrate, wherein the first surface is defined on a first side of the substrate and the second surface is defined on a second side of the substrate.
This invention relates to printed structures, specifically those formed on substrates with distinct surfaces on opposite sides. The technology addresses the challenge of creating functional printed structures that require precise alignment or interaction between features on both sides of a substrate, such as in flexible electronics, sensors, or multi-layered circuits. The printed structure includes a substrate with a first surface on one side and a second surface on the opposite side. The structure is designed to enable printing or deposition of conductive, insulating, or functional materials on both surfaces, allowing for interconnections or layered functionalities. The substrate may be flexible or rigid, depending on the application, and the printed features on each side can be electrically, optically, or mechanically coupled. This dual-sided printing approach enhances device performance by integrating components like electrodes, traces, or sensors on both surfaces while maintaining structural integrity. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring compact, multi-functional devices, such as wearable electronics, flexible displays, or printed circuit boards with through-substrate vias. By enabling precise alignment and interconnection between layers on opposite sides of the substrate, the technology improves manufacturing efficiency and device reliability. The printed structure can be tailored for various materials, including polymers, metals, or ceramics, depending on the desired properties.
7. The printed structure of claim 1 , wherein the first surface and the second surface are physically separated to prevent intermixing of the first ink and the second ink.
This invention relates to a printed structure with multiple inks applied to separate surfaces to prevent intermixing. The structure includes a first surface with a first ink and a second surface with a second ink, where the surfaces are physically separated to avoid contact between the inks. This separation ensures that the inks do not blend or react with each other, maintaining distinct properties for each ink. The printed structure may be part of a larger system, such as a multi-layered print or a device with functional inks, where preventing intermixing is critical for performance. The separation can be achieved through physical barriers, spacing, or layered construction. The invention addresses challenges in printing applications where different inks must remain isolated, such as in electronic circuits, sensors, or multi-color printing, where ink contamination could degrade functionality or visual quality. The design ensures that each ink retains its intended characteristics without interference from the other. This approach is particularly useful in industries requiring precise ink deposition, such as additive manufacturing, printed electronics, or high-resolution printing.
8. The printed structure of claim 1 , wherein the first ink is printed halftone at a first angle; and the second is printed halftone at a second angle, wherein the first angle is different from the second angle.
This invention relates to printed structures with enhanced visual effects, specifically addressing the challenge of creating depth, texture, or security features in printed materials. The invention involves a printed structure formed by depositing at least two inks onto a substrate, where the inks are applied in a halftone pattern at different angles. The first ink is printed in a halftone pattern at a first angle, while the second ink is printed in a halftone pattern at a second angle, with the two angles being distinct. This angular difference between the halftone patterns creates a moiré effect or other visual interactions, enhancing the structure's appearance or security features. The substrate may be paper, plastic, or another printable material, and the inks can vary in color, opacity, or other properties to further customize the visual outcome. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring anti-counterfeiting measures, decorative printing, or tactile effects. The angular offset between the halftone patterns allows for precise control over the resulting visual or tactile effects, making the printed structure more distinctive and harder to replicate.
9. The printed structure of claim 8 , wherein the first angle and the second angle differ by 45 degrees.
This invention relates to printed structures, specifically those with angular features designed to enhance mechanical properties or functionality. The printed structure includes a first portion and a second portion, where the first portion is oriented at a first angle relative to a reference direction, and the second portion is oriented at a second angle relative to the same reference direction. The first and second angles differ by 45 degrees, creating a specific angular relationship between the two portions. This angular configuration may improve structural integrity, reduce stress concentrations, or optimize material usage in additive manufacturing processes. The printed structure may be part of a larger object, such as a component in a mechanical assembly, where precise angular alignment is critical for performance. The invention addresses challenges in designing printed structures with controlled angular features to achieve desired mechanical or functional outcomes. The angular difference of 45 degrees ensures compatibility with certain manufacturing constraints or performance requirements, such as minimizing anisotropy or improving load-bearing capabilities. The structure may be fabricated using various additive manufacturing techniques, including 3D printing, where precise control over angular features is essential.
10. The printed structure of claim 1 , wherein the first image and the second image are arbitrary relative to one another.
This invention relates to printed structures, specifically those formed by printing multiple images in a way that allows for arbitrary relative positioning between the images. The technology addresses the challenge of aligning or positioning printed images with high precision, which is critical in applications such as multi-layer printing, electronic circuit fabrication, or any process where multiple printed layers must interact or overlay accurately. Traditional printing methods often rely on fixed or pre-determined alignments, which can limit flexibility and introduce errors when variations in substrate materials, printing conditions, or environmental factors occur. The printed structure includes at least two printed images, where the first image and the second image are positioned relative to one another in an arbitrary manner. This means their relative positions are not constrained by predefined alignment rules or fixed offsets, allowing for greater adaptability in printing processes. The arbitrary positioning can be achieved through techniques such as real-time adjustment during printing, post-printing alignment corrections, or dynamic control of the printing mechanism. This flexibility is particularly useful in applications where precise overlay is required but cannot be guaranteed by conventional methods, such as in additive manufacturing, flexible electronics, or multi-material printing. The invention enables more robust and versatile printing solutions by accommodating variations in alignment without compromising functionality.
11. A method for generating a print with a different appearance under different lighting conditions, comprising: generating by a processing element a color prediction model representing achievable color ranges for one or more color alteration effects for a first input image and a second input image; evaluating the color prediction model for the first input image and the second input image to determine artifact areas; reducing a color gamut in the artifact areas of at least one of the first input image and the second input image to generate a first output image corresponding to the first input image and a second output image corresponding to the second input image, wherein the first output image and the second output image have fewer artifacts under at least one of a first light condition or a second light condition as compared to the first input image and the second input image; and printing onto a substrate the first output image and the second output image.
This invention relates to a method for generating prints that exhibit different appearances under varying lighting conditions. The technology addresses the challenge of producing prints that maintain visual quality and minimize artifacts when viewed under different lighting environments, such as natural daylight and artificial lighting. The method involves generating a color prediction model using a processing element. This model represents the achievable color ranges for one or more color alteration effects applied to a first input image and a second input image. The color prediction model is then evaluated to identify artifact areas in both input images. To mitigate these artifacts, the color gamut in the identified artifact areas is reduced for at least one of the input images, resulting in a first output image and a second output image. These output images exhibit fewer artifacts when viewed under at least one of two distinct lighting conditions compared to the original input images. Finally, the first and second output images are printed onto a substrate, ensuring consistent visual quality across different lighting scenarios. The approach enhances print reliability and visual fidelity in dynamic lighting environments.
12. The method of claim 11 , wherein the first output image is printed on a first surface and the second output image is printed on a second surface, physically separated from the first surface.
This invention relates to a method for printing images on physically separated surfaces, addressing the challenge of producing distinct visual outputs on different surfaces in a coordinated manner. The method involves generating a first output image and a second output image, where the first output image is printed on a first surface and the second output image is printed on a second surface that is physically separated from the first surface. The printing process ensures that the two images are aligned or coordinated in a specific way, even though they are on separate surfaces. The method may include preprocessing steps to prepare the images for printing, such as adjusting resolution, color, or other visual properties to ensure consistency between the two surfaces. The printing can be performed using any suitable printing technology, including inkjet, laser, or digital printing, depending on the materials and requirements of the surfaces. The invention is particularly useful in applications where visual continuity or synchronization between separate surfaces is desired, such as in packaging, signage, or multi-surface displays. The method ensures that the printed images maintain their intended visual relationship despite being on physically distinct surfaces.
13. The method of claim 11 , wherein the first output image is observable under visible light and the second output image is observable under ultraviolet light.
This invention relates to a method for generating dual-mode images that are observable under both visible and ultraviolet light. The method addresses the need for images that can be viewed under different lighting conditions, such as security features on documents or labels that require verification under UV light while remaining visible under normal lighting. The method involves processing an input image to produce two distinct output images. The first output image is designed to be visible under standard visible light conditions, while the second output image is optimized for visibility under ultraviolet (UV) light. The dual-mode capability ensures that the same image can serve multiple purposes, such as authentication or decorative applications, without requiring separate printing or display processes. The method may include steps such as adjusting color channels, modifying contrast, or applying specific filters to the input image to generate the two output images. The visible-light image may use standard inks or pigments, while the UV-light image may incorporate fluorescent or phosphorescent materials that emit light when exposed to UV radiation. This dual-mode approach enhances security and functionality by allowing the same image to be used in different environments or for different verification purposes. The invention ensures compatibility with existing imaging systems while providing an additional layer of visual or security features.
14. The method of claim 11 , wherein the substrate includes a first material and a second material, wherein the first output image is printed on the first material and the second output image is printed on the second material, wherein the second material overlays the first material.
This invention relates to a method for printing on a multi-layer substrate to create a composite image. The substrate consists of at least two distinct materials, where a first material forms a base layer and a second material overlays the first material. The method involves printing a first output image onto the first material and a second output image onto the second material. The second material is positioned over the first material, allowing the printed images to interact or combine in a way that produces a final composite visual effect. This approach enables layered printing, where the properties of each material and the alignment of the printed images contribute to the overall appearance. The method may be used in applications such as security printing, decorative printing, or functional printing where layered materials are required. The invention ensures precise registration between the printed images on the different material layers to maintain the intended visual or functional outcome. The technique may involve specialized printing techniques to ensure proper adhesion and alignment between the layers.
15. A method of printing a structure with different appearances in different lighting conditions, the method comprising: printing by a printer, a fluorescent ink on a first surface, the fluorescent ink arranged into a first image; and printing by a printer, a visible ink on a second surface, the visible ink arranged into a second image, wherein the first surface is physically separated from the second surface and the first image formed by the fluorescent ink is visible under ultraviolet light and the second image is visible under visible light.
This invention relates to printing techniques that create structures with distinct appearances under different lighting conditions. The method involves printing a fluorescent ink on a first surface to form a first image, and printing a visible ink on a second surface to form a second image. The two surfaces are physically separated, meaning they are not in direct contact or part of the same layer. The first image, printed with fluorescent ink, is visible under ultraviolet light, while the second image, printed with visible ink, is visible under standard visible light conditions. This approach allows for dual-layered or multi-surface printing where different visual effects are achieved depending on the lighting environment, enhancing security features, artistic designs, or functional applications where variable visibility is desired. The separation of the surfaces ensures that the two inks do not interfere with each other, maintaining the distinct visibility of each image under its respective lighting conditions.
16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the first surface is transparent.
A method for enhancing the performance of a device by modifying its surface properties involves treating a first surface of a component to improve its functionality. The first surface is transparent, allowing light or other electromagnetic radiation to pass through while maintaining structural integrity. The treatment process may include applying a coating, altering the surface chemistry, or modifying the surface texture to achieve desired properties such as reduced reflection, increased durability, or improved adhesion. The method ensures that the transparency of the first surface is preserved while enhancing other performance characteristics. This approach is particularly useful in optical devices, displays, or sensors where maintaining transparency is critical while improving additional features like scratch resistance or environmental stability. The treated surface may also be integrated with other components or systems to optimize overall device performance. The method is applicable to various materials, including glass, polymers, or composite substrates, and can be tailored to specific application requirements.
17. The method of claim 15 , wherein the fluorescent ink is printed in halftone at a first angle and the visible ink is printed in halftone at a second angle.
This invention relates to printing techniques for combining fluorescent and visible inks to create security features or decorative effects. The problem addressed is the need to integrate fluorescent and visible inks in a way that enhances visual contrast and security while maintaining print quality. The solution involves printing fluorescent ink in a halftone pattern at a first angle and visible ink in a halftone pattern at a second angle. Halftoning is a printing technique that simulates continuous tones by varying the size and spacing of dots. By printing the two inks at different angles, the overlapping patterns create a moiré effect or other visual interactions that are difficult to replicate, improving security. The visible ink is designed to be visible under normal lighting conditions, while the fluorescent ink becomes visible under ultraviolet (UV) light. This method ensures that the printed image appears distinct under different lighting conditions, enhancing both functionality and security. The technique can be applied to documents, packaging, or other printed materials where authentication or visual appeal is important. The use of halftoning at different angles allows for precise control over the appearance of the printed image, ensuring that the fluorescent and visible inks do not interfere with each other while still creating a cohesive design.
18. The method of claim 15 , further comprising: spatially varying an input color gamut of a portion of a first input image to be printed with the fluorescent ink to reduce ghosting effects under visible light; and spatially varying an input color gamut of a second input image to be printed with the visible ink to reduce ghosting effects.
This invention relates to printing systems that use both fluorescent and visible inks to reduce ghosting effects under visible light. Ghosting occurs when printed images appear faintly visible under certain lighting conditions, degrading print quality. The method addresses this by spatially varying the input color gamut of different portions of an image to minimize such artifacts. The process involves two key steps. First, for portions of an image printed with fluorescent ink, the input color gamut is adjusted spatially to reduce ghosting. This means modifying the color range of specific areas to ensure consistent visibility and prevent unwanted light interference. Second, the input color gamut of a second image printed with visible ink is also spatially varied to mitigate ghosting effects. This adjustment ensures that the visible ink does not create unintended visual artifacts when combined with the fluorescent ink. By dynamically adjusting the color gamut for both ink types, the method improves print quality by reducing ghosting, ensuring that printed images remain clear and accurate under various lighting conditions. The spatial variation of the color gamut is tailored to the specific properties of each ink type, optimizing the overall printing process.
19. The method of claim 15 , wherein the first image formed by the fluorescent ink and the second image formed by the visible ink are unrelated to one another.
This invention relates to a method for printing images using both fluorescent and visible inks to create distinct, unrelated visual effects. The method involves applying a first image using fluorescent ink, which is visible under ultraviolet (UV) light but not under normal lighting conditions, and a second image using visible ink, which is visible under normal lighting conditions but not under UV light. The two images are intentionally unrelated, meaning they do not share a direct visual or functional relationship. This allows for dual-layer printing where one image is only visible under specific lighting conditions, enhancing security, anti-counterfeiting measures, or decorative applications. The method ensures that the fluorescent and visible inks do not interfere with each other, maintaining the clarity and distinctness of each image. The technique is particularly useful in applications where covert or hidden information needs to be printed alongside overt, visible content, such as in security documents, packaging, or branded materials. The use of unrelated images prevents any visual correlation between the two layers, making it difficult to reverse-engineer or replicate the printed design. The method may also include additional steps to optimize ink adhesion, drying, or alignment to ensure high-quality printing results.
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March 13, 2018
November 26, 2019
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